Mathews County officials issue mandatory evacuation

The Mathews County Sheriff's Office released this statement late Saturday afternoon:

"This is the Mathews Sheriff's Office. A local state of emergency has been declared. We are going to suffer the effects of a prolonged storm to include 6-7 inches of rain and peak high tides (with) water levels 4-5 feet above normal.

Problems as a result of downed tree and power outages will most likely be significant. A mandatory evacuation has been issued for low-lying areas. Winds could exceed 50 mph, at which time emergency services will be halted. The shelter at Thomas Hunter Middle School will be opened at 8 a.m. Sunday. Please take all necessary precautions."